The Birth of the AMC 304 V8 Engine

The AMC 304 V8 engine was designed to be a high-performance powerplant, capable of delivering strong acceleration and decent fuel efficiency. When introduced in the late 1960s, it was touted as one of the most powerful engines available from American Motors Corporation (AMC). The engine’s performance capabilities were attributed to its 4.3-liter displacement, which generated 270 horsepower at 4400 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque at 2800 rpm.

Despite its impressive specifications, the AMC 304 V8 engine was not without its weaknesses. Its fuel efficiency was somewhat mediocre, with an estimated 10-15 miles per gallon in city driving and 15-20 miles per gallon on the highway. Additionally, the engine’s weight and size made it less suitable for smaller vehicles.

However, the AMC 304 V8 engine proved to be a versatile powerplant, compatible with a range of vehicles from the compact American Motors Ambassador to the full-size AMC Matador. Its strength and durability also made it an attractive option for racing enthusiasts, who appreciated its ability to deliver reliable performance over long periods of time.

Performance and Characteristics

The AMC 304 V8 engine, as we’ve seen in the previous chapter, was designed to provide improved performance and efficiency for its equipped vehicles. In terms of performance capabilities, the AMC 304 V8 engine is a powerful and reliable option.

  • Horsepower: The AMC 304 V8 engine produces a peak horsepower of 280-290 horsepower, depending on the application.
  • Torque: With a maximum torque output of around 430 lb-ft, this engine provides ample power for acceleration and cruising.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Although not its strongest suit, the AMC 304 V8 engine still manages to achieve reasonable fuel efficiency, with an estimated EPA rating of 10-12 mpg city and 15-18 mpg highway.

One of the key strengths of the AMC 304 V8 engine is its adaptability. It can be paired with various transmission options, including manual and automatic three-speed and four-speed transmissions. Additionally, it is compatible with different suspension systems, allowing for a range of ride and handling characteristics.

In terms of weaknesses, the AMC 304 V8 engine does suffer from some vibration issues due to its design. However, these can be mitigated through proper maintenance and tuning.

Overall, the AMC 304 V8 engine is an excellent choice for those seeking a powerful and reliable V8 engine for their vehicle. Its versatility and adaptability make it an attractive option for a wide range of applications, from muscle cars to family sedans.

Vehicles Equipped with the AMC 304 V8 Engine

Several vehicles were equipped with the AMC 304 V8 engine, each offering unique features and styling. The 1973-‘75 AMC Javelin SST, for instance, featured a bold front grille and sporty stripes on its sides. Its interior boasted luxurious amenities like power windows, air conditioning, and a premium sound system.

The 1972-‘74 AMC Rebel Machine, another notable model, was designed to resemble a high-performance roadster. It had a distinctive “Mach” hood with a prominent scoop and flared fenders. Inside, it featured sporty bucket seats, a console shift, and a floor-mounted shifter.

The 1971-‘72 AMC AMX Javelin were also equipped with the AMC 304 V8 engine. The AMX, a compact muscle car, had a distinctive “Coke-bottle” body style and a bold front grille. Its interior was designed for performance, with sport seats, a floor-mounted shifter, and a rally-style instrument cluster.

Other vehicles that featured the AMC 304 V8 engine included the 1972-‘74 Jeep J-4100 pickup truck, which offered a rugged exterior design and practical interior features like a bench seat and storage compartments. The 1973-‘75 AMC Matador Coupe, with its sleek fastback styling, was another model that came equipped with this powerful engine.

Each of these vehicles showcased the versatility of the AMC 304 V8 engine, which could be paired with various body styles, trim levels, and interior designs to create a range of unique driving experiences.

Technical Specifications and Upgrades

The AMC 304 V8 engine was a 5.9-liter (360 cubic inch) version of the AMC 290 V8, sharing many common components and design elements. Its compression ratio was 8.2:1, slightly higher than its smaller sibling, which allowed for better fuel efficiency while maintaining decent performance.

The engine’s cylinder head configuration featured rectangular ports with a unique combustion chamber design, allowing for improved air/fuel mixing and more efficient combustion. The valve train was equipped with hydraulic lifters to reduce noise and vibration, making the engine suitable for both on-road and off-road use.

Available upgrades included:

  • High-performance camshaft profiles for increased power output
  • Aluminum cylinder heads for reduced weight and improved cooling
  • Performance air filters and intake manifolds for improved airflow
  • Heavy-duty connecting rods and pistons for increased durability
  • Upgraded valve train components, such as sodium-filled exhaust valves and hardened pushrods

These upgrades allowed enthusiasts to tailor the engine’s performance to their specific needs, whether it was high-performance driving or heavy-duty towing.

Legacy and Impact

The AMC 304 V8 engine left a lasting impact on the automotive industry, influencing car design, engineering, and marketing. Its robust power output and durability made it a popular choice for muscle cars and trucks, setting new standards for performance and reliability.

Notable achievements include its use in iconic vehicles such as the AMC Javelin and **AMC Hornet**, which became symbols of American muscle and racing prowess. The 304 V8 engine also powered the AMC Matador, a full-size sedan that redefined the boundaries of performance and luxury.

In terms of engineering, the AMC 304 V8 engine’s design influenced subsequent V8 engines, particularly in regards to its cylinder head configuration and intake manifold layout. Its durability and reliability also paved the way for future engine designs, setting new benchmarks for performance and longevity.

Marketing-wise, the AMC 304 V8 engine played a significant role in establishing American Motors Corporation (AMC) as a major player in the automotive industry. Its powerful performance and rugged dependability helped to redefine the brand’s image, making it a go-to choice for enthusiasts seeking high-performance vehicles.

In conclusion, the AMC 304 V8 engine is an iconic powerplant that has left its mark on the automotive industry. Its use in various vehicles has made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts and collectors. This article provides an overview of the vehicles equipped with this engine, highlighting their unique features and characteristics.